Sisters in Ministry
Our Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods are passionate about serving God by caring for all God’s creation, especially those most in need. We serve in many ways, from education to social justice, parish ministry, hospital ministry, serving the economically poor, advocating for immigrants and for a healthy environment. Read how some of our sisters serve God and others through their ministries.
A celebration of commitment
The family of Providence came together June 25, 2022, to celebration time together and to be commissioned for continued service in the mission of love, mercy and justice.
Sister Betty Hopf honored with Sunshine Award
'I feel like I'm making a difference in peoples' lives.'
A journey of Providence on Chicago’s westside
My journey in pastoral ministry has been very transforming for me. I have had the privilege and opportunity of stepping inside another race, culture and hearts. I am truly blessed.
Hybrid virtual/in-person retreats and programs reach even more seekers
“The hybrid format is allowing people from around the world to benefit from the many and diverse program offerings. It’s bringing people together in a new way. Some are remaining in contact with one another long after the program ends.”
Newsnotes from summer 2022 HOPE magazine
What's been going on with the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods? Find out!
Sister Joseph Ellen Keitzer: Blessed by the African American Catholic Community
t’s been a wonderful journey. I love the people. I’ve been so blessed by the African American community. Having shared their story, their faith, their dependence on God, my own journey as a Sister of Providence has been really transformed."
Welcome to the ‘Evolving Woods’
We asked ourselves, ‘What is our next ministry? To what might we be being called at this time in our history?’ If we believe that special care for those with cognitive changes is one such ministry, before we move forward, we want to make sure that we have the various resources needed to provide quality care to those who come to us and the capacity to sustain that ministry into the future.
Tapping into fresh energies: Sister Joni’s vocation and teen ministries
“Women are searching, seeking, desiring to be in right relationship. They have a desire to be part of a puzzle bigger than themselves. They want to live the Gospel with other persons who are like-minded. They want to make a difference in the world."
Moving forward, exuding happiness: Sister Grace Marie Meehan
Gracie, as she is fondly called, has always been known as someone who does not fret and worry. A cheerful, giving person, light-hearted and happy. But she is also a risk taker who broke down barriers.
Sister Jessica Vitente: Leading and being led to God
Sister Jessica hopes the Newman Center provides the college students served with companions on the journey in service with one another, to the campus community and the community at large. Most importantly, the Center must let students know they are loved, accepted and belong to the community.
My mother’s hands: a Mother’s Day reflection
As I grew into adulthood and left home to pursue my own dreams of becoming a teacher, I realized what wonderful life lessons I learned from my mom. Especially lessons about the importance of a strong work ethic and finishing what you have started.
Sisters of Providence sign Catholic Sisters letter on end of Title 42
Many Sisters of Providence recently signed this letter to President Biden